| How does MRI operate?
What should I expect?
MRI images are formed when signals, emitted by body tissue, are processed by software and turned into clinical images. These signals are generated using a safe magnetic field in combination with radio waves.
A typical procedure averages 30 minutes or longer depending on the type of information required by your physician. You can help make the image quality of your MRI the best it can be by simply relaxing and remaining as still as possible.
During your exam, an MRI technologist will be with you and be able to see you at all times. For your convenience, an intercom system is built into the system so you can make contact with your technologist if the need arises. In certain cases, a contrast agent may be administered to enhance the study. There are no extra precautions if your physician requires this type of study.
Once you are situated on the table, make sure you are comfortable so that it is easy to remain still for the duration of the exam. Breathe normally. Once the exam has begun, you will hear a knocking sound that represents changes in the magnetic field that are a normal part of the imaging process. At the conclusion of the exam, the technologist will assist you out of the scan room.
How do I prepare for the MRI?
No special preparation is required prior to your MRI exam. You may eat normally and perform your daily routines without interruption. Continue to take any medications prescribed by your physician unless otherwise directed. If you are pregnant, please notify your physician prior to having the MRI exam. Prior to entering the scan room for your exam, you will be asked to leave items that are not compatible with a magnetic field in a safe place outside the scan room. Some of those items include:
- coins
- jewelry
- earrings
- watches
- glasses
- credit cards
- hearing aides
- keys
- hair pins
- other metal objects
You may also be asked to remove make-up and dentures and to wear a hospital gown to avoid magnetic interference from belt buckles and zippers.
Other items to consider are the presence of implants and similar items. Check with your physician or MRI technologist if you have had any brain, ear, eye or other surgeries or any of the following:
- pacemaker
- neuro-stimulator (tens-unit)
- metal implants
- intrauterine device (IUD), etc.
- aneurysm clips
- surgical staples
- implanted drug infusion device
- foreign metal objects in the eye
- shrapnel or bullet wounds
- permanent eyeliner
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